Effects of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> Lam. onReproductive Organ Weight and Tissue Biochemistry in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to reproductive impairments. Medicinal plants and herbs, rich in antioxidants, can potentially alleviate diabetes-induced male reproductive dysfunctions. Aim: To assess the ameliorative effects of 70% ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOLE) on reproductive organ weights and biochemical markers within reproductive tissues in diabetic rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats were injected with a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at a dose of 60 mg/kg to induce type I diabetes. Diabetic rats were then given oral doses of MOLE at 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg body weight per day over 60 days. The findings were compared with those of diabetic rats treated with the standard antidiabetic drug, glibenclamide (5 mg/kg body weight per day). Measurements included the absolute and relative weight of testes, epididymides, vasa deferens, seminal vesicles, and ventral prostate. Additionally, protein, glycogen, cholesterol, sialic acid, and acid and alkaline phosphatases in the testes and epididymis, along with fructose content in the seminal vesicles, were analyzed. Results: Oral administration of MOLE at doses of 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg body weight per day, significantly increased both the absolute and relative weight of reproductive organs and restored biochemical parameters in the reproductive tissues of diabetic rats. These effects were comparable with glibenclamide. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that MOLE significantly restored the weight of reproductive organs and improved tissue biochemical parameters in diabetic male rats. Major Findings: The present study indicated the ameliorative effect of MOLE on diabetes-induced biochemical alterations in testicular and epididymal tissue and improved reproductive organ weight.